Lead Process Safety Engineer- Houston TX
We are seeking a highly experienced Lead Process Safety Engineer to drive the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of process safety programs across power generation and natural gas pipeline operations. This role provides technical leadership in hazard identification, risk assessment, compliance assurance, and safety management systems. The ideal candidate is a seasoned process safety professional who can collaborate across engineering, operations, maintenance, and regulatory teams while promoting a strong and proactive safety culture.
Key Responsibilities
Process Safety Leadership
- Lead the development and management of core process safety programs, including PHA, LOPA, MOC, and incident investigation.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to strengthen process safety performance and reduce incidents.
- Support and guide cross-functional teams in implementing process safety best practices.
Risk & Compliance
- Conduct and oversee risk assessments and hazard analyses for power plants and natural gas pipeline projects.
- Ensure compliance with OSHA PSM, EPA RMP, API, NFPA, ANSI, and local/state regulatory standards.
- Lead and facilitate safety audits, inspections, and interactions with regulatory agencies.
Technical & Documentation Support
- Develop, review, and maintain key process safety documentation such as safety cases, operating procedures, and emergency response plans.
- Provide mentorship to safety engineers and technical guidance to engineering and operations teams.
- Assist with incident investigations, root cause analyses, and corrective action implementation.
Collaboration & Training
- Integrate process safety requirements into project design, construction, and operational phases.
- Coordinate with contractors and vendors to ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Deliver training programs that reinforce process safety principles across the organization.
Minimum Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Safety Engineering, or a related discipline.
Experience
- 15+ years of engineering experience, including significant process safety engineering within power generation (coal, gas, combined cycle, renewable) or oil & gas.
- Strong understanding of power plant systems: steam generation, combustion, emissions control, and electrical generation.
- Demonstrated success managing process safety programs and leading teams.
Technical Knowledge
- Deep knowledge of process safety management systems, hazard analysis techniques, and regulatory requirements.
- Familiarity with OSHA PSM, EPA RMP, API RP 754, NFPA 85/86, and pipeline safety regulations.
- Experience with risk assessment tools and power plant performance monitoring/optimization tools.
- Understanding of ICS cybersecurity practices and environmental control systems (e.g., SCR, FGD).
- Proficiency with MS Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Outlook).
Certifications/Licenses
- Valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.
Competencies & Skills
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence safety culture.
- Capable of performing detailed technical reviews and managing multiple priorities.
- Demonstrated focus on safe work practices and quality performance.
- Ability to work independently with moderate supervision and meet tight deadlines.
- Professional, tactful communication skills for interacting with a wide range of stakeholders.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, climb, kneel, bend, and lift up to 50 lbs.
- Must be capable of working outdoors in varying weather conditions and accessing elevated platforms, ladders, and walkways.
- Normal vision, hearing, and mobility required for fieldwork and facility inspections.
Working Conditions
- Primarily office-based with frequent travel (up to 40%) to plant sites, engineering offices, and project locations.
- Occasional overnight travel required.
- Must be able to respond to calls during working and non-working hours.
- Pre-employment drug screening and background check required.
FAQs
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